Optus Business has inked an agreement with Myriota, an Adelaide-based provider of nanosatellite Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, with a view to delivering remote and regional connectivity for IoT devices and applications.
Optus, which billed the partnerships as an Australian first, said the telco-nanosatellite provider agreement will bring together its own national networks and digital enablement capabilities with Myriota’s direct-to-orbit technology.
This, the Singtel-owned company said, will allow for massive scale, low-cost communications for IoT devices across remote Australian geographies.
“The arrangement will offer low-cost, long battery life connectivity for millions of devices across multiple industries. The devices will allow companies to track assets across Australia, even in the most remote areas,” it added.
CEO and co-founder of Myriota, Dr Alex Grant, said the agreement would unlock new opportunities for IoT applications across a wide variety of industries.
“Remote connectivity has long been the missing piece of the puzzle for IoT across industries like logistics and farming, and we are thrilled to partner with Optus Business to provide a comprehensive connectivity offering,” Grant said.
“Previously, satellite connectivity has not been available or affordable for businesses with remote assets, but nanosatellites are providing a more attainable and affordable solution. By combining Optus’ national networks with our nanosatellite capability, we are able to offer a truly holistic IoT solution and help solve connectivity issues being faced in regional Australia,” he said.
The two companies have a shared history, with 2018 seeing Myriota secure US$15 million in Series A funding from companies including Singtel Innov8; the venture capital arm of Optus’ parent company Singtel.